<Match Review>
In the previous match, Tokyo achieved their first victory in 5 league games against Shimizu S-Pulse on enemy territory. In particular, in the second half, they dominated the game by holding onto the ball for most of the time. They embodied their desired style on the pitch, such as defending from the front, thick attacks, and creating time to settle down by holding onto the ball. Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA praised the team's performance, saying, "Today was the start of a day when FC Tokyo's playing style began to change," and they returned home with 3 points.
In this round, which marked the return to home after changing the flow that had been far from victory, we faced the top-ranked Kashima Antlers. For Ryoya OGAWA, who has decided to transfer to Portugal's Vitoria Sport Clube, this was his last chance to play at Ajinomoto Stadium in the league. We welcomed this match, where we wanted to win for the sake of our teammates who have been active in Tokyo for 7 and a half seasons.
Tokyo wants to hold the ball and calmly progress the game, but Kashima is fighting hard in the ball area and pressing in coordination with the ball holder, making it difficult to find a way to enter the opponent's territory. Even in scenes where they counterattack after taking the ball, they easily lose the ball in their haste to attack and are pushed back to their own half by Kashima's strong and fast vertical attacks. They struggled to create attacking opportunities, but in the 23rd minute of the first half, they carried the ball deep into the opponent's territory and Kuryu MATSUKI received the ball on the left side and passed it to Diego OLIVEIRA, who had entered the central area of the penalty area. Diego passed the defender and Ryoma WATANABE, who had come in behind him, took a one-touch shot but it went over the goal. They struggled with the continuous back-and-forth of the ball, but in the 33rd minute of the first half, they changed the tempo of their passes to change the flow of the game. Ogawa, who had the ball in a high position on the left side, passed it to Ryoma WATANABE in the central area. When Ryoma and Diego took a one-touch one-two, several opponents were drawn in, and Ryoma entered the space in the penalty area that the opponents had left. Ryoma was faster than the chasing defender and shot the ball into the right corner of the goal, giving Tokyo the lead.
Tokyo, who took the lead, got into a rhythm and started to function defensively in coordination with the ball side, regaining the ball in the midfield battle and increasing their time in possession. In the 41st minute of the first half, Adailton made a run behind the opponent's defense and approached the goal, but his one-on-one opportunity was blocked by the opponent's goalkeeper. Although it didn't result in a goal, Tokyo took advantage of the space created by the opponent's push forward and launched a fierce attack. In the 43rd minute of the first half, after repelling the opponent's attack, Adailton received a through pass in his own half and used his speed to leave the defender behind in one touch, carrying the ball towards the penalty area. Using Diego as support, he couldn't make it to the shot but created space on the right side. Watanabe, who had made a run into the goal area, took a shot with his right foot that was sucked into the top left corner of the goal, extending Tokyo's lead as the game reached halftime.
In the early stages of the second half, Adailton created a chance. In the 5th minute of the second half, he picked up a ball that seemed to cross the left touchline and headed towards the penalty area while carrying an opponent defender on his back. He was knocked down from behind while controlling the ball towards the goal, earning a penalty kick. In the 7th minute of the second half, Diego Taba calmly slotted the penalty kick into the left corner of the goal, extending Tokyo's lead to 3 points.
It seemed like it would be the deciding goal, but in the 9th minute of the second half, a cross ball from the right side was put in and Ueda Ayase player scored a goal in the bottom right corner, bringing the score to 1-1. As the opponent pushed forward and attacked, there were more opportunities to attack with space, but they were unable to make a decisive shot while approaching the opponent's goal. In the 43rd minute of the second half, Adailton player made a short counter and entered the penalty area, but the shot was saved by the opponent's goalkeeper. Although they lost a goal, their transition to defense after attacking was smooth and quick, and they finished the game without conceding any more goals.
Before entering the break period, we were able to achieve consecutive victories in the league and gain a solid sense of growth in terms of content. We want to express our further growth on the pitch of the league that will resume with the Emperor's Cup, without being overconfident in the confidence gained in these two matches, and by continuing to train.
[Interview with Coach Albert]
Q, please review the game.
A, We expected Kashima to have a high-quality team and to come out with a high-intensity defense from the beginning. We fixed our mistakes from the Fukuoka game and prepared for today's match. If we concede a goal early on, it becomes a difficult game for us. We wanted to avoid that. Our team is still in a growth stage. We haven't yet reached the level where we can hold onto the ball against a team with such high-intensity defense. However, we knew it would be hot today and it was our last game in a congested schedule, so we also expected their intensity to drop after about 20 minutes in the first and second half. After the water break, we were able to hold onto the ball well. From there, we were able to dominate the game with the ball and create several decisive chances. Fortunately, we were able to score 2 goals from 3 chances and those goals had a big impact on the flow of the game.
Regarding the second half, we expected to struggle at the start. However, it was crucial that we were able to score an additional goal during that time. We had hoped to end the game by securely holding onto the ball after making it 3-0, but unfortunately we conceded a goal early on. I believe that goal had a significant impact on the flow of the game. However, I think we were able to respond well after that goal. From there, we predicted two possible scenarios. One was to lower our defensive block and use long balls more frequently. However, I thought it was too risky to lower our defensive block because Kashima has high-quality players in the front line. I always believe that the best defense is to hold onto the ball, so we chose that option. Even in a difficult situation where we had to clear the ball, the team chose to connect passes in a simple situation that would eventually settle down.
We were able to create chances to score additional points by switching between offense and defense in a good manner, rather than relying on counterattacks. Even in the final stages of the game, the players showed a strong determination to fight and win. As those living in the world of competition, it is crucial for us to fight with all our might. As I always say, our main goal this season is to continue growing every day. Our opponents have various ways of fighting and playing, but as we face different opponents with different characteristics, we aim to further improve and grow. I believe we were able to grow through this game.
I would like to once again praise today's opponent Kashima. I also met the coach of Kashima for the first time and I would like to praise him as well. I felt that he is a wonderful person and is leading the team in a great direction. And I would also like to praise the fans and supporters of Kashima. Many fans and supporters came to Ajinomoto Stadium and passionately supported the team. I would also like to praise the referees. I think they made great decisions. Lastly, I would like to praise our fans and supporters. In this wonderful weather, many people came to (Ryoya) Ogawa's last home game and created a great atmosphere. Thank you very much.
Q, There was talk that the opponent's intensity drops after 20 minutes. Did you tell the players before the game or during the water break?
A, We have informed the players in advance and prepared for it. We expected the opponent's intensity to drop after the first half's water break, so we gave instructions to (Ryoma) WATANABE to play more centrally.
Q, I would like to ask about Watanabe's positioning. Was it expected that one of the double volantes from Kashima would come to catch Aoki as part of the game plan? Was the intention to play in the center to use the space around the remaining player?
First, we aimed to create a numerical advantage by having (Matsuki) Kuryu come down to the side of Aoki. In the next phase, we aimed to create an even greater numerical advantage by placing (Abe) Shuto and (Watanabe) Ryoma in the zone where the opponent player remained in a one-man defense. We had this game plan, but I think there are times when it works well and times when it doesn't work well.
Q, FC Tokyo has achieved its 300th victory in the J1 League.
It was a special game for me, my 100th game in the J League. There are many things to celebrate today, so I want to celebrate with champagne tonight. Of course, it's great to have achieved a commemorative victory. We have finished the first half of the season in the past few months. It's a short and busy schedule, but we also struggled with COVID-19 at the beginning of the season. We also overcame a difficult period with many injuries to our center-backs. Leandro's injury was also a big one. Despite these obstacles, we have faced a clear change in playing style in the past few months.
Comparing the first few games of this season and the recent play of the team, I think we can see clear growth. So, I am very proud of this team. And once again, I am very grateful to the club and all the fans and supporters for patiently and warmly supporting the team. I want you to imagine that if during this process, the club and fans and supporters had become nervous and caused anxiety for the team, I think the outcome would have been different. Now, we are in the process of building the foundation of the team. And we are at a stage where we are promoting the growth of young players who will lead the future of the club. Because I am thinking in the long term, I do not set immediate goals such as winning titles or achieving many victories. This is because winning a game is influenced by many factors. I think Liverpool also had a great season this year, but they did not win all the titles they wanted. On the other hand, I do not think they failed. I cannot accept the value of only evaluating winning. This is because winning is influenced by many factors. However, if we continue to do good work and continue to do what we should do, I believe the team can grow to a position where they are always competing at the top.
[Player Interview]
Ryoma WATANABE
Q, please review the two goals from today.
It was a goal that won the battle against the goalkeeper. The aim was to fake a shot to the far side and score near the goal. For the second goal, I was thinking about the first goal and was able to score to the far side.
Q, I think there was also an instruction from coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA to play more inside.
A, it was the same from the Shimizu game, but I was able to grasp the timing myself and create good opportunities by going inside while watching the game. The coach had told me before the game that he wanted me to show that scene, and I think that's what led to today's success.
Q, there was also a shot by Ogawa that led to a goal in the previous match. Has your kicking feeling been improving from your usual training?
A, since there were many games where we couldn't score despite having the chance to score from Levain Cup, I approached today's game with the desire to at least score one goal, so I'm glad we were able to score two goals. However, we are only halfway through the season, so I think there will be many more opportunities to score, so I don't want to be satisfied with today's result and want to keep going.
Q, Have you had the opportunity to play in various positions so far this season? If so, please tell us about the current situation and challenges.
A, no matter what position, the 100% effort remains the same. However, as a player originally in an attacking position, I have a strong desire to be involved in scoring, and that feeling does not change even if I am a side back. Recently, I have been told less about it, but defense is still an issue and I need to improve. This applies even during attacking, so I think I need to improve my hard work and individual defensive tactics.
Q, What do you need to do to score more goals in the future?
A, I want to have the consciousness to decide for myself while being asked for results such as scoring or assisting in any position without forgetting the feeling of today or my good feeling. I want to have the courage to go forward.
Q, what did you say to Ogawa when he challenged overseas in the same year?
A, When I first went abroad, I struggled with the language, so I learned it over 1 or 2 years. However, I realized how difficult it is when you can't communicate well, so I think it's important not to forget to make an effort in that area.
<Diego OLIVEIRA>
Q, What was your team's goal going into the game?
A, I thought it would be a tough battle with Kashima, and they have a high-quality team. It was an important game for us to be able to play in our usual rhythm and defend in a high position in the opponent's territory. I think it was a big factor in today's victory that we were able to express that and take the lead.
Q, I think we were able to work hard throughout the game.
A, I think the results were achieved because we were able to perform at a high level in our regular practice. Not only the 18 members who were selected, but also the entire team, including those who were not selected, were able to have high-quality practices. As a result of our hard work, it is reflected in our games. I believe that is a strong factor.
Q, I think we were able to effectively use the space of the opponent's gap.
A, I have been able to receive the ball at the gap since the previous match. However, it is not just my role to enter there, so I think it is important to play backwards from the goal. I think it was good that I was able to make plays involved there and quickly switch when the team lost the ball.
Q, there were plays involving 2 assists and a goal, but what did you see?
A, I have been unable to score recently, so I felt like I needed to contribute something for the team. I am happy that I was able to make 2 assists. I will continue to contribute to the team by scoring and assisting, and I will do my best to achieve results.
<Ryoya OGAWA>
Q, (In the league game) It was the last game at Ajinomoto Stadium, what were your feelings going into it?
A, Although my feelings were the same as always, I just wanted to win no matter what form it took.
Q, There may have been times when the team struggled to score, but in the last two games, we have been able to score multiple goals. What improvements do you feel have been made in the attacking aspect?
I think we are doing well in improving the quality in the vital area and sharing the image among players. We can play calmly even in front of the goal. We are able to create good goals from a good flow of not forcing shots or dribbles, but reliably connecting with our teammates, taking good positions, and shooting at the best timing. I think we are able to play the soccer we want to play.
Q, There are two more league matches left, but how do you want to approach them?
A, I can only play a maximum of 2 games (in the league), so I want to secure 6 points and raise the team's ranking as much as possible.
Q, please review the scene of the first goal.
A, Ryoma WATANABE showed his face between the opponent's defense and midfield, and before that, Diego pulled the opponent's defense by slipping behind, making Ryoma WATANABE more open. The goal against Shimizu was also like that, the choice changes depending on whether the opponent comes out or not by putting the ball diagonally. In this case, we were able to pass through with a one-two because they came out, and if they didn't, the front was open and we could take a shot, so I think diagonal passes were effective in terms of attack.
Q: Do you study the language when playing overseas?
I have heard discussions about what players who have experienced overseas should do, and I have been studying English during the pandemic, so I think I can communicate to some extent. However, the other day, (Albert) coach told me that English does not work in Portugal, so I want to work hard on Portuguese from now on.
Q, What kind of words did you receive from Mr. Yuichiro Honda (former coach at Ryutsu Keizai University Kashiwa High School) regarding this transfer?
A, The current coach of the Tokyo Metropolitan University Kashiwa High School is Mr. Masahiro Enomoto. When I first told Mr. Enomoto, he was very happy and told me to produce results.
Q, Do you have any thoughts or images in your mind about walking the ideal path, with the presence of Nagatomo, who has been active overseas as a good example?
One of the amazing things about player Nagatomo is his exceptional communication skills, which allow him to adapt to any country he goes to. I believe that this is especially important when going abroad, so I also want to prioritize and work on this aspect.
Q, when playing on the left side, I have always said that I want to make use of my left-handed strength. How specifically do you want to fight in that area?
A, I think there is a unique feeling and a way of holding it that is unique to left-handed people, so I want to make the most of it, and I think the width of play will expand by being able to hold the ball openly. Also, I want to increase my assists from the left side crosses.
<Kuryu MATSUKI>
Q, we won with 3 goals against the top-ranked Kashima.
A, we knew that the opponent would come at us with a high press from the front line, and we talked as a team that if we could break through it, it would be our chance. So, being able to score at a good time made the game easier for us to progress.
Q, I think we were able to take our chances and score with certainty.
A, I want to continue to improve the finishing, which has been a challenge since before.
Q, the team was able to maintain a strong connection with the ball while facing intense pressure from the opponent's front line.
As Coach Albert PUIG ORTONEDA also mentioned, we were consciously able to maintain our style and play with a high press, which I believe will be beneficial for us in the future. I expect our opponents to analyze us more closely in the future, but we will continue to play our own style of football.
Q, After scoring the third goal, we conceded a goal. What kind of encouragement did the team give each other?
A, in that situation, we let our guard down. I thought the game would go in a bad direction if we continued like that, so I had Morishige lead the team and give good encouragement to bring us together.
Q, How do you feel about the maturity of the new style?
A, I think we were able to move the ball while working together. If we can further mature this style, I believe we can play our own game for the full 90 minutes.
